FESTIVE FOUNDATIONS
TIPS AND TRICKS TO PREPARE FOR A SENSORY FRIENDLY HOLIDAY SEASON
Knowingwhattoexpectthisholidayseasoncan helpmakeitafuntimeforeveryone.Herearesome helpfultipsandtrickstohelpmakethistimeofyear enjoyableforeveryone!
HAVE A CODE WORD AND AN EXIT STRATEGY PLANNED OUT BEFOREHAND
If you have another adult with you while you ’ re out, create a code word that either of you can say if anyone in the family needs to leave immediately.
LOWER EXPECTATIONS
The best holiday memories are made when everyone is more present and less stressed! Try not to set expectations for yourself or your family.
READ SOCIAL STORIES ABOUT WHAT THE INDIVIDUAL MIGHT EXPECT AT DIFFERENT EVENTS
If yourself or your children don’t know what to expect, read stories together about the kinds of event you are attending. If you can’t find one, Chat GBT can be a useful tool in writing one for you.
CREATE
A VISUAL
SCHEDULE
SO THAT EVERYONE KNOWS WHAT TO EXPECT THE DAY TO LOOK LIKE
Use pictures to create a step-by-step schedule to help you and your family better understand the events and activities that will take place.
IDENTIFY A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER WHO CAN PROVIDE BRIEF RESPITE DURING THIS TIME SO THAT YOU CAN ALSO HAVE TIME TO ENJOY THE HOLIDAY.